G-7 summit addresses Russia-Ukraine situation

The Heat

G-7 summit

U.S. President Barack Obama responded to the stand-off with Russia over Ukraine by pledging an increased military presence in Central and Eastern Europe.

It’s a trip that began with celebrations marking Poland’s first democratic elections 25 years ago – and end Friday with ceremonies in Normandy commemorating the 70th anniversary of D-day. But sandwiched in-between is the grim reality of 21st century tensions – and the battle over Ukraine – once the cornerstone of the former Soviet Union.

Dogged by criticism of being too passive on the world stage, U.S. President Barack Obama pledged his country’s support for Poland and the former Soviet states, saying they will quote “never stand alone”.

And he vowed that the United States and its allies will, in his words “not accept Russia’s occupation of Crimea or its violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty.” Underscoring that commitment, Mr. Obama unveiled plans to beef up America’s military presence in the region.

CCTV’s Jack Barton reports from Brussels.
Follow Tom Barton on Twitter @TomBartonJourno

G-7 summit addresses Russian-Ukraine situation Seg. 1

U.S. President Barack Obama responded to the stand-off with Russia over Ukraine by pledging an increased military presence in Central and Eastern Europe.

What’s next in the stand-off with Russia over Ukraine after G-7 summit in Brussels? For analysis we talked with David Mercer. He’s a board member with the National Security Network and the head of his own government consulting firm. And in New York, the Vice President for Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace – Douglas Paal.

G-7 summit addresses Russian-Ukraine situation Seg. 2

What’s next in the stand-off with Russia over Ukraine after G-7 summit in Brussels? For analysis we talked with David Mercer. He’s a board member with the National Security Network and the head of his own government consulting firm. And in New York, the Vice President for Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace – Douglas Paal.

With more about President Obama’s relations with Europe we are joined by Rem Korteweg, from London. He’s a senior research fellow with the Centre for European Reform.

G-7 summit addresses Russian-Ukraine situation Seg. 3

With more about President Obama's relations with Europe we are joined by Rem Korteweg, from London. He's a senior research fellow with the Centre for European Reform.